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STREAMER - WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

I've been using the Eversolo DMP-A8 and think it's a mid-range, feature-rich, capable, and attractive machine.  For the past few months, my focus has been on putting my system together (e.g., new caps on the amps, new tubes, getting clean power, turntable, phono stage, etc) and have felt that I've been overly focused on the analog side.  I've long wanted to work on getting my end game digital setup and pulled the trigger on a BAT Rex 3 DAC and now want a streamer that mates well with it.  I know little about streamers. . .just enough to get lost in the topic.  

Other than an easy-to-read screen and balanced outputs, what features should I look for in an endgame streamer that will deliver a significant performance boost?  I invite any suggestions. 

patrickalston
easystreamer
121 posts
 

What are you going to be streaming from? A streaming service like Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz? Or local files stored on a media server?

If a streaming service, based on your great DAC, you cannot beat an iPad for a great user interface and experience with native streaming service apps. If you had a lesser DAC, than maybe spend more on a "streamer" component.

If streaming from local files on a music server, I have no experience but the Aurender products are a crowd favorite for that method.

soix
11,242 posts
 

Ditch the screen as it’ll greatly limit your options — just use an iPad or other tablet.  None of the best streamers have a screen.  Aurender, Innuos, Grimm, and Antipodes all get high marks and offer great service.  I’ve read that the AES/EBU input might be the best option on your DAC, and if that’s the case that might influence your choice of streamers.  Best of luck. 

hifihandyman's avatar
hifihandyman
86 posts
 

Hello!  I’m currently using the BAT REX3 DAC in my system and one thing you need to keep in mind is that you need to use the USB input to take advantage of all the sampling rate options.  I’m currently using the HifiRose 130 as my streamer but use Roon because I don’t care for the HifiRose app.  Another streamer that I have used and loved was the SoTM sMS-200ultra and it’s a very simple but KILLER sounding streamer, but once again you pretty much need to use Roon.  There are other options but I never tried them.  The REX 3 DAC is just amazing, it’s in my system for good!

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
5,987 posts
 

I have the Aurender N200 and am very happy with it.

All the best.

rick_n's avatar
rick_n
481 posts
 

On my digital side I'm running an Aurender N20 and I'm very happy.  Having said that I think you should demo a comparable Inuous streamer.  Aurender vs. Inuous sounded very different when I tried them in my system.  I found the Inuous more detailed and the Aurender smoother.  From your list of gear the Inuous might be a great fit and major SQ upgrade.  Both Aurender and Inuous have very good demo programs.  Good luck and cheers. 

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